Steps To Preserve Your Hip Joints Now, And Prevent Fractures Later

The risk of hip fracture increases as we age; here’s what you can do to stack the odds in your favor.

A hip fracture is a serious injury, particularly for the older patients who are most susceptible to them. These fractures occur in the femur, just below the hip joint. Most are caused by factors that weaken bone over time, combined with the impact from a fall.

Hip injuries occur most often in people aged 65 and older. Women are especially vulnerable; suffering approximately 70 percent of hip fractures. Treatment typically requires surgery, hospitalization, and extended rehabilitation. Even then, a hip fracture is often the end of independent living. Most patients go from rehabilitation to an assisted living arrangement.

There are short-term and long-term steps you can take to reduce the risk of a hip fracture as you age.

Embrace balance training.

Balance practices like tai chi have been shown to decrease falls and reduce the risk of hip fracture. When you add balance training to your routine, you can increase your self-confidence as well as your body balance.

Improve your bone strength.

Talk with your doctor about any fracture risk factors you may have. Together, you might want to consider a bone density test. Genetics also plays a role in bone health, and can mean a higher rate of bone turnover as you age. A bone metabolism test can help assess your risk. If bone loss is an issue, your doctor may prescribe medication to slow bone loss and increase bone strength.

Create a safe home environment.

Because most fractures are the result of a fall, you can safeguard yourself with simple home safety improvements. Remove clutter and unstable area rugs, use adequate lighting, and install stabilizing bars in bathrooms.

Monitor your medications.

Talk with your doctor about prescribed and over-the-counter medications that might cause drowsiness or dizziness. Keep an up-to-date list of all of your medications to provide to other healthcare providers you might consult.

“Whether an athlete or non-athlete — eight or eighty years old — the goal is optimal results. We take the time to listen carefully and communicate with patients about their diagnosis and treatment plan.”

Summit Orthopedics provides the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota with comprehensive orthopedic care. Our expert team of physicians, surgeons, physician assistants, certified athletic trainers, and therapists are available at a clinic location near you.

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